F&I Management & Training

At next month's Frankfurt Show, Hyundai will unveil a replacement for its smallest car, the i10, that's not only more European to look at, touch and drive, but which will also be built in Europe for the first time.

Production of the i10 for Europe is being switched from India to Izmit in Turkey in September. Capacity there has been doubled to 200,000 cars a year to allow the new model to be built on the same line as the i20. Once the switch has been completed, 90% of the cars Hyundai sells in Europe will be made in Europe.

Strictly speaking, the factory is in Asia as it is located east of the Bosphorus, but Hyundai regards Turkey as a European country. India will build a different version of the new i10 for the domestic market.

The UK is by far the leading European outlet for the current i10, and was one of two countries where the new version was subjected to customer clinics. The other location was Italy, which leads the way for small-car sales and is also regarded as a style capital.

The i10 came out top in every one of the comparison tests against the Volkswagen Up!, Fiat Panda and Kia Picanto, according to Christan Looer, head of product marketing for Hyundai in Europe. The clinics featured customers of other brands as well as current i10 owners. "In Italy it gave us our best response in seven years, but it also did well in the UK," Looer says.

The new i10 will offer 1.0-litre and 1.2-litre petrol engines, plus 1.1-litre and 1.4-litre turbodiesels in some markets, like the present model. But it is based on an all-new platform which makes the car longer, wider and lower than the current model, with a slightly greater wheelbase. Hyundai claims class-leading passenger and boot space.

The current car's suspension has been extensively reworked to improve ride comfort, agility and braking stability, and there has been a major upgrade in quality. "We have focused our investment on the touch and see parts," says Looer.

The new i10 features an evolution of Hyundai's "fluidic sculpture" design language while trying to emphasise sophistication, according to designer Jochen Werner. "Some rivals are almost comical," he says.

It is also likely to offer a greater level of personalisation than other Hyundais, though nowhere near as much as the Up! or the Fiat 500. Upmarket features that will be available include a heated steering wheel, a smart entry/ignition key, LED daytime running lights, air conditioning and cruise control with a speed limiter.

European sales of A-segment cars like the i10 are expected to reach 1.4 million a year by 2016 - only just short of the record 2010 figure, which was achieved during the heyday of scrappage schemes following the 2008 banking collapse.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

The Football Association of Wales has announced a four-year sponsorship extension with Vauxhall Motors that will see the British vehicle manufacturer maintain its position as Official Partner to the Wales National teams.

The sponsorship, which began in January 2011, will now run until July 2018, up to and including the FIFA World Cup Finals in Russia.

Within that period, Chris Coleman's side will embark on their UEFA European Championships 2016 qualification campaign with the Wales women's and youth teams also competing in tournaments and matches throughout the world with the support of Vauxhall.

Vauxhall Chairman and Managing Director, Duncan Aldred, commented; "We are delighted to have extended our relationship with the Football Association of Wales and all of their National teams.

"The decision to renew our sponsorship for the next five years was made much easier given the tremendous response we've received from our customers and retailers in Wales.

"Our research shows that having an affiliation with the Welsh national side has delivered fantastic levels of brand awareness and we plan to continue this by playing a key role in supporting the FAW and developing football in Wales over our extended period as lead partners.

"This partnership is a clear and unequivocal sign of Vauxhall's long standing commitment to Welsh football and will provide support from grassroots up to the elite level. We are proud to pledge our support to Wales and look forward to a second term of a productive partnership."

Announcing the extension at the recently opened Dragon Park in Newport, Jonathan Ford Welsh FA Chief Executive, said: "We are extremely proud to have extended our relationship with Vauxhall.

"To have received such fantastic support throughout the first term of this extended partnership has given a Welsh football a real boost.

"There is an optimism surrounding the future of Welsh football and we are delighted that Vauxhall will be an integral part of it.

"I look forward to sustaining a prosperous partnership that will inspire Chris Coleman's side for the rest of the FIFA World Cup 2014 qualification period and into the UEFA Euro 2016 campaign."

As part of the new agreement Vauxhall will be making a significant investment into the media department at the FAW with an aim of giving fans greater behind the scenes access via unique video content.

Wales turn their attentions to Cardiff City Stadium for a friendly with The Republic of Ireland, before travelling to Macedonia on 6^th September for a World Cup Qualifier.

Notes to the editor: A British brand with a strong heritage, Vauxhall Motors is 110 years old, manufacturing motor vehicles in the UK continuously since 1903. The company is a major British industrial force with two manufacturing plants in the UK - vans in Luton and cars at Ellesmere Port.  It is the largest manufacturer of commercial vehicles in the UK and in General Motors' top five largest global markets.  Vauxhall employs over 4500 people in the UK and exports over 75% of its production.

Vauxhall continues to build upon its British roots, an important illustration being the company's sponsorship of all four UK teams in Home Nations football.  The company is also proud to fund raise for the Help for Heroes charity.  The Vauxhall range spans all mainstream sectors of the vehicle market with best-selling model names such as Corsa, Astra, Meriva, Zafira and Insignia regularly topping the sales charts and has recently added all-new ADAM, Mokka and Cascada models to its portfolio

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

BMW i continues to forge ahead with the introduction of customer-friendly electromobility services in the UK, forming a partnership with Schneider Electric.

The partnership sees Schneider Electric become, not only the manufacturer of the BMW i Wallbox, but also the recommended installer.

This collaboration will allow Schneider Electric to work closely with the BMW i Sales Agents and customers, providing home surveys, supply and installation of the charging point, as well as offering maintenance and comprehensive support.  The installation package will be provided by Schneider Electric but managed by BMW and can be customised to meet customers‘ specific requirements.

The BMW i Wallbox will allow BMW i owners to charge their vehicle's quickly and conveniently while at home or at work.  The BMW i3 is the first electric vehicle on the market to be purpose-designed to work with a specially developed home charging unit from the outset.

The BMW i Wallbox will enable owners in the UK to charge their BMW i3 at up to 7.4kW from zero to 80 per cent within three hours, and on to a full charge within four hours.

As part of a £37 million package of investment in electric vehicles in the UK, the government offers a 75 per cent grant for the provision of domestic charging points.  This subsidy applies to the BMW i Wallbox, bringing the installed cost down to £315 incl. VAT*.

David Greaves, National Business Development Manager for EV at Schneider Electric, comments: "We are very excited about this partnership as the provider of home EV charging systems to BMW customers.  We strive to deliver seamless, efficient and customer-friendly EV charging installation, extending excellent service into the provision of domestic electric car charging systems."

Suzanne Gray, General Manager BMW i, commented: "We are delighted to have Schneider Electric, one of the world's most experienced leaders in EV charging technology infrastructure, on board to help bring 360˚ ELECTRIC to customers as part of the launch of the new BMW i3".

This is the first time that a premium car manufacturer has partnered directly with a charging point manufacturer and installer to provide EV charging facilities in the home, not only in the UK but through a global partnership between BMW AG and Schneider Electric.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Europe's fastest-growing car brand, Dacia, has attracted hordes of savvy car buyers in the UK with more than 11,000 orders already. And that's mostly for the first two models in its line-up, the Duster SUV and Sandero supermini. The third car, Sandero Stepway, is gaining fast too, so the arrival of the all-new Logan MCV five-seat estate just in time for the new 63-plate on 1^st September is the icing on the proverbial cake.

As its catchy TV ad says, Dacia doesn't do frivolity. With every model being the most affordable in its class, combined with a high level of quality and unrivalled space, the cars almost sell themselves.

Prices in the Dacia range start at just £5,995 for the surprisingly spacious Sandero supermini, which was recently hailed the UK's least depreciating new car by leading residual value provider, CAP.

Next up is the newly launched crossover, Sandero Stepway, which combines SUV style and increased ground clearance for when the going gets a little tougher, with supermini prices, starting at £7,995.

The five-seat Logan MCV (Maximum Capacity Vehicle), priced from an eye-catching £6,995, is the most affordable new estate in the country by £4,000. Although it's based on the Sandero supermini, it offers unrivalled bootspace for the cash. In fact, it's so capacious, with 573 litres with the rear seats in place (or 1,518 with them folded), it offers comparable room to that in well-known antique dealer favourite, the Volvo V70. There's also ample interior space for five adults and a range of state-of-the-art petrol and diesel engines. Those looking to splash out, can even add leather upholstery or the intuitive seven-inch MediaNav touchscreen multimedia system.

Completing the range is the "shockingly affordable" flagship Duster which has already made a big name for itself after cleaning-up at the carbuyer.co.uk, Top Gear, FHM, Towcar and Scottish Car of the Year awards ceremonies.

Every model in the UK's "most affordable SUV" range offers impressive value-for-money, with prices starting from only £8,995. The four-wheel-drive versions cost only £2,100 more for all-weather, go-anywhere ability. As Top Gear said, "no car in the world offers more freedom for your quid than the Dacia Duster".

Dacia, the "smart buy" offshoot of Renault, has made an enemy of the unnecessary and makes a simple range of cleverly designed, high quality vehicles. Its jaw-dropping prices are clear and straightforward, whether you buy online at the Dacia Store on www.dacia.co.uk or through your local dealer. All of the latest Dacia range information, including Logan MCV, is available at www.dacia.co.uk, 150 Dacia Retailers across the UK, or, by calling 0844 335 1111.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Coventry: Jaguar Land Rover Automotive plc has today reported revenues of £4,097m for the first quarter of the 2013/2014 fiscal year, up 13% on the same period last year. (£3,638m in Q1 2012/2013).

Retail sales increased 10% year on year to 94,719 vehicles, reflecting strong demand for all Jaguar and Land Rover product offerings. The company generated positive sales growth in all regions: Asia Pacific up 37%, the UK up 13%, China up 11%, North America up 10%, Europe up 3%, and other overseas markets up 11%.

Profit before tax increased year on year by 25% to £415m for the quarter (£333m last year).

Commenting on the results, Jaguar Land Rover Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Ralf Speth said: "The result for the first quarter demonstrates that our full range of new and upgraded products is exciting our customers.

"Our focus is to put our customers at the very heart of everything we do. With our appealing British led design and innovative engineering, we remain committed to exceeding customer experiences in all areas of our business".

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

One in 20 adults was involved in a road accident in 2012, according to road safety charity, Institute of Advanced Motorists.

Using information from the National Travel Survey published by the Department for Transport it shows that 5.2% of the population admit to having been involved in an accident.

Figures also reveal that men are more likely to be involved in an accident than women.

This means that an incredible 2.4 million Brits were involved in the trauma and stress of a road crash last year, with around 800,000 actually injured.  In the vast majority of these crashes those involved were car occupants.

IAM chief executive Simon Best said: "The good news is that our roads have never been safer and the headline death and serious injury figures continue to fall.  But we still kill five people every day, and these government figures suggest that millions are involved in minor bumps and scrapes every year.  Car and road design have delivered a safer driving environment, but it is clear that we must all share the responsibility of reducing accidents and collisions."

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Luton - Vauxhall will open its Heritage Centre to the public on Sunday 18th August as it celebrates its 110th birthday, giving everyone the chance to see its private collection of historic vehicles.

With cars from the current range alongside those dating back to 1903, Vauxhall Heritage Centre's annual open day is always a great day out for the car enthusiast and, with entertainment, activities and refreshments throughout the day, great for the family as well.

Visitors will be able to view the company's private collection of over 60 significant cars, including production models from every decade as well as a selection of unique concept cars. Notable cars among the collection include the 1903 5 HP, the second-oldest Vauxhall in existence, the recently restored Firenza Droop Snoot, Astra MK1 GTE and the legendary Lotus Carlton. There will also be the chance to see not one, but two of the legendary 30-98 models, Britain's first 100mph car, which celebrates its centenary this year.

All cars are kept roadworthy and are fully-maintained in pristine condition by the Vauxhall Heritage Team. 

The open day is held at the Heritage Centre situated in the grounds of Vauxhall's head offices in Luton, located on Park Street and will run from 10:00am until 4:00pm. General admission is free and open to all, with free parking also provided.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

BCA is offering a very special MINI Cooper at the Blackbushe auction centre on Wednesday 15 August direct from GE Capital.

The ex-management MINI Cooper S 1.6 John Cooper Works with Chilli Media Pack is fitted with nearly every optional extra available to the MINI range and originally cost over £30,000 on the road.  The 2011 registered car has covered just 24,000 miles from new and is offered with a full service history.  Boasting a 225 BHP tuned engine with sports suspension, it is fitted with the John Cooper body kit finished in Carbon Black with Chilli Red roof and mirror caps, John Cooper bonnet stripes, Bi-Xenon headlights, plenty of chrome detailing and sits on black alloy wheels.

The interior is also finished in Carbon Black with Chilli red accents, with auto air conditioning with cooled glovebox, the Vision pack, Harman Kardon hi-fi system, DAB Radio, Voice Control, MINI Connected Pack, Bluetooth with USB audio interface, Navigation System, Comfort access system, heated Recaro seats, heated front windscreen with tinted rear windows, Vodaphone car kit and numerous interior trim upgrades.

Safety and driving aids include ABS/EBD, Cornering brake control, Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic traction control, speed sensitive power steering, hill start assist, rear park distance control, all around airbags and crash sensor.

BCA National Account Manager Phil Kelly commented "This is arguably one of the best specified MINI Coopers on the road and is sure to create a lot of interest amongst MINI enthusiasts when it is offered for sale at BCA Blackbushe."

Mark Green, Remarketing Leader, UK GE Capital added "This is a one-of-a-kind car that boasts performance, handling and every extra you could possibly want as well as that indefinable MINI magic.  This really is the car to nudge your MINI passion up a gear!"

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Honda's new British built Civic Tourer will be making its first public appearance at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show alongside the refreshed Civic hatchback

In addition to these two debuts, Honda will showcase a selection of modern and historic racing machines alongside its ultimate sportscar, the NSX Concept, highlighting Honda's racing DNA and sporty heritage.

Civic Tourer & Refreshed Civic hatchback
Developed and designed in Europe, the new Civic Tourer features a sleek and sophisticated exterior combined with class leading interior space. This new model will be built at Honda's UK manufacturing factory in Swindon alongside the Civic hatchback variant, Jazz and CR-V and is set to be launched in early 2014. 

Alongside this new addition to the Civic family, Honda is further strengthening the Civic range with a refreshed hatchback model. The Civic will feature exterior and interior design refinements and will also be displayed for the first time at Frankfurt Motor Show. 

Honda NSX Concept II
This concept, first shown in Europe at the Geneva Motor Show earlier in the year, suggests a potential direction for the next-generation NSX's interior design. The NSX will act as the halo of the Earth Dreams Technology series, embodying Honda's philosophy of balancing dynamic performance with environmental efficiency.

McLaren Honda MP4/4 Heritage F1 Car
Powered by a 1500cc V6 twin-turbo engine, this iconic machine dominated the 1988 F1 series, winning 15 of 16 GPs. It set the record for the number of GP wins in a season and won both the Constructor's and Driver's championships. Honda will return to F1 in 2015 under a joint project with McLaren.

Honda WTCC Car
Honda is competing in the 2013 FIA World Touring Car Championship with drivers Gabriele Tarquini and Tiago Monteiro and Honda will be displaying the 2013 car at Frankfurt 2013. The Civic WTCC car utilises the HR412E engine, a completely bespoke 1.6 litre 4 cylinder direct injection turbo-charged petrol engine, fully conforming to FIA regulations for the WTCC. 

Honda will also display the RC213V Race Motorcycle that is currently running in the Moto GP for the Repsol Honda team, further demonstrating Honda's passion and pedigree in the world of Motorsport. 

The Honda Press Conference will take place at 13:30hrs CET on Tuesday 10th September on the Honda stand (Hall 9: Stand B11).

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

BCA and Harwoods, the southern-based prestige dealer group, have signed an exclusive remarketing deal that will see around 3,000 cars offered annually through a programme of sales staged at BCA London Enfield.

Harwoods holds franchises for Aston Martin, Audi, Bentley, Jaguar and Land Rover at dealerships across the south covering Hampshire, Sussex, Surrey and Kent.  The new sales programme at BCA will offer a wide selection of premium makes and models at a variety of ages and mileages with the average selling price expected to be around £8,000.  Sales take place every Thursday at 12.30 pm and every vehicle in the programme will be pre-sale prepared to a high standard and offered with a BCA Assured report.

The new programme commenced on Thursday 1^st August with a sparkling selection of more than sixty vehicles.   Overall, 90% of the cars on offer were sold for a turnover of nearly £450,000, equivalent to 97% of CAP Clean.  The sale attracted a large crowd of buyers to BCA London Enfield and a further 115 dealers logged on via BCA Live Online, purchasing 23% of the cars on offer.

Strong sellers in the first sale included a 2011 MINI Countryman in white at 38,000 miles that sold for £12,000 (112.15% CAP), a 2008 Bentley Continental GT 6.0 Coupe that sold for £49,600 (100.4% CAP), an 07/56 Land Rover Freelander 2 that realised £10,400 (109.47% CAP), and a 2006 Audi  A4 2.0 TDI S Line Multitronic Saloon that sold for £4,950 equivalent to 104.21% of CAP despite having covered over 100,000 miles. 

Strongest CAP performance was achieved by the 02/52 Land Rover Freelander TD4S which sold for £2,700 - or 136.71% of CAP - at 59,000 miles. 

Harwoods has adopted BCA's exclusive ‘Smart Sell' system across the retail group, meaning every incoming non-retail part-exchange vehicle is remotely entered for sale using BCA's software. 

Harwoods' Sales Director, Alex Merricks commented "BCA offered us a comprehensive remarketing package, including the ‘Smart Sell' service which means we can start the remarketing process immediately for those part-exchange vehicles that do not fit our retail profile.  With the targeted e-marketing campaigns, detailed online cataloguing and the buying power generated by BCA Live Online, we are confident of getting the best returns for Harwoods cars through this programme of sales at Enfield."

BCA's UK Sales Manager David Burden added "This first sale featured a superb range of attractive prestige stock and we saw a lot of interest from both buyers in the hall and via BCA's Live Online service, which led to a great result.  We are delighted to welcome the Harwoods Group to BCA London Enfield and we are looking forward to a long and successful remarketing partnership."

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

FRANKFURT - Chevrolet will be showcasing a host of new convenience and safety enhancements to its line-up at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. Among the design highlights is the new Spark Bubble edition, which will induce even more customers to become fans of Chevrolet's most popular model in Europe.

"We constantly strive to give our customers great value for their money," said Dr. Thomas Sedran, President and Managing Director, Chevrolet Europe. "This year, we are adding the new Chevrolet MyLink connected radios, more safety and comfort features as well as new engines with lower emissions, such as the 1.7L diesel with 99 g of CO₂ per 100 km in the Chevrolet Cruze saloon," Sedran added. ** Approval required **

Spark Bubble edition delivers more convenience and great looks

In select European markets, customers can order the new Spark Bubble, a special edition of the popular city car. It carries a sporty bumper, side rocker moldings, 15-inch white painted alloy wheels as well as frisky white or pink-colored Bubble decals on the front fenders. The center console and inserts have been styled to match the cheerful color pattern on the exterior. The seats are made of leatherette.

Moreover, Chevrolet's most successful European model will provide improved safety, thanks to standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and meet Euro5+ emission criteria.  

Inside, the instrument cluster and trims have been restyled. A new radio with Bluetooth connectivity is standard on most trim levels. The interior also features a CD player as well as USB and aux-in jacks. For audio streaming and hands-free calling, steering wheel controls can be used.

Chevrolet Aveo receives rearview camera

Customers who intend to buy an Aveo with the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio can look forward to using a standard rearview camera. The device is connected to the radio's seven-inch high resolution touch screen and makes maneuvering in and out of tight parking spaces safer and more comfortable.

The LTZ trim of the Chevrolet Aveo will have stylish LED turn signals mounted in the outside mirrors.

Cruze gets more powertrain options and new safety feature

Starting this autumn, a choice of four petrol engines will be available on all body styles of the Cruze -  a naturally aspirated 1.4L (100 hp/75 kW), a 1.4L turbo (140 hp/103 kW), a 1.6L (124 hp/91 kW) and a 1.8L (141 hp/104 kW) engine. The diesel line-up, currently consisting of a 1.7L (130 hp/ 96kW) and a 2.0L (163 hp/120 kW) unit, will be complemented by a 110 hp (81 kW) variant of the1.7L diesel. The latter has the smallest carbon footprint - just 99 g of CO₂ per 100 km - of all engines offered on the Cruze.

On the LTZ trim of the Cruze family, Chevrolet is introducing Side Bind Zone Alert, a safety feature spots approaching vehicles in the side blind zone by means of radar. In potentially hazardous situations, the driver is alerted through an amber display that lights up in the left or right side mirror. The display will flash if the driver attempts to activate a turn signal while an object is present in the side blind zone. The outside rearview mirrors will sport integrated LED turn signals.

Chevrolet Orlando boasts Advanced Parking Aid

With the new model year, Orlando will be available with Side Blind Spot Alert. The system has ultrasonic sensors that detect approaching vehicles in the blind spot and warns the driver through an illuminated icon in the outside rearview mirrors.

In addition, the Orlando will make parking in cities more convenient, thanks to the Advanced Parking Aid functionality offered on higher trim levels. The driving aid identifies suitable parallel parking slots at low speeds and gives the driver instructions on how to steer the vehicle.

Seamless smartphone integration will be possible with the new, icon-based Chevrolet MyLink connected radio with its seven-inch high-resolution full-color touch screen. The new radio will be standard, and depending on the trim level, the package may include a rearview camera and an integrated navigation system.

Passengers in the rear seats, meanwhile, will appreciate the second row seat heating that is available on select trim levels.

Changes to the exterior include LED turn signals in the outside rearview mirrors as well as new 16-inch wheel covers and 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels. Under the hood, the Orlando is now available with a proven 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine which can be matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Trax now available with FWD variant of 1.4L Turbo engine

The turbocharged petrol variant (1.4L) of Chevrolet's small SUV, the Trax, will become available with a front-wheel-drive layout as of this autumn. When matched to a six-speed manual transmission, this variant of the Trax is capable of zero to 62 mph in 9.5 seconds. Fuel consumption on a combined cycle is 47.1mpg with Stop/Start, which translates into 139 g of CO₂ per km.

Founded in 1911 in Detroit, Chevrolet is the world's fourth largest car brand with annual sales of almost 5 million cars and trucks in more than 140 countries. Chevrolet provides customers with vehicles that feature spirited performance, expressive design, high quality and Chevrolet MyLink intelligent connectivity. The UK Chevrolet line-up includes the Spark, Aveo, Cruze Saloon, Hatchback and Station Wagon, Orlando, Captiva, the legendary Camaro and Corvette sports cars and the extended-range Volt electric car. In 2013, Chevrolet is launching the all-new Trax small SUV and the all-new Corvette Stingray. More information on Chevrolet can be found at www.chevrolet.co.ukor media.chevrolet.co.uk.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Oxford. A new era of driving excitement, in-car-infotainment and premium quality in the small car segment is drawing ever closer

The new MINI will be unveiled on 18 November 2013, 107 years to the day since the birth of the man who started an automobile revolution, Sir Alec Issigonis. MINI Plant Oxford will host the world premiere, with a party in London that same evening.

The new MINI will also have its exhibition premiere in front of international audiences that same week, with an almost simultaneous unveiling in Los Angeles and Tokyo. On 20 November 2013, the limelight will shine on the new star of the premium small car segment, first at the Tokyo Motor Show, Japan, followed just hours later by the Los Angeles Motor Show in California, USA. The new MINI will go on sale in the first quarter of 2014.

Born in Great Britain, built in the best tradition. 

Just like its predecessor, the new MINI will be produced in Oxford. The start of production and the world premiere will mark additional highlights in a jubilee year for the MINI Plant, where automobiles have been built for more than 100 years at the historic Oxford location.

The world premiere will pay tribute to MINI's origins and the creator of the original icon. With the introduction of the Mini in 1959, Alec Issigonis revolutionised the automobile industry. A transversely mounted engine, front wheel drive, wheels set in all four corners and an advanced undercarriage not only delivered unparalleled cabin space for passengers and luggage on a small footprint, but also exceptional driving agility.

The concepts Issigonis introduced in the Mini became the foundation for many generations of small and compact cars. In their most modern form, those principals will continue to live on in the new MINI. Completely new engines and chassis technologies, MINI Connected innovations and refined premium quality will make it the new benchmark for driving enjoyment in its class.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Toyota will showcase an exciting new concept for road and track at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show, featuring Toyota Hybrid System-Racing (THS-R) technology.

THS-R technology has been used in the TS030, Toyota's FIA World Endurance Championship car, which achieved second place at this year's Le Mans 24 hours. More information on the concept will be available in the coming weeks.

Toyota's press conference will begin at 12:45pm on first press day (10 September) in Hall 8.

DATED; 08.08.13

FEED: HA

Hyundai Motor Europe has released the first picture of New Generation i10, the company's completely-new European A-segment car.  Appearing five years after its predecessor went on sale, New Generation i10 demonstrates significant progress for Hyundai in the segment, possessing abilities and features typically only found in higher segments.  Generous levels of equipment, space and functionality, coupled with sophisticated design, refined ride qualities and a quiet cabin, set new levels of ‘true value' for Hyundai.

Buyers of New Generation i10 will be offered the highest levels of comfort and safety equipment, with many features more common to segments above.  Available equipment such as automatic climate control, heated leather steering wheel and cruise control with speed limiter provide bigger-car comfort, while safety features include standard-fitment stability control and front curtain airbags.

Longer (+80mm), wider (+65mm) and lower (-50mm) than its predecessor, New Generation i10 provides best-in-class legroom and cargo capacity.  Front and rear passengers benefit from combined legroom of 1,890mm, while boot capacity has been boosted by more than 10% to 252 litres with all seats in place.

New Generation i10 is based on an all-new platform featuring a 5mm-longer wheelbase and relocated rear dampers that deliver more precise wheel control over all types of road surface.  To take full advantage of its enhanced dimensions, New Generation i10 has also been carefully tuned to deliver refined driving dynamics and low noise levels, for an experience close to the standard of B-segment cars.

The European Hyundai design team, led by Chief Designer Thomas Bürkle, has created a dynamic shape using fluidic sculpture, Hyundai Motor Company's design philosophy, to emphasise the new car's athletic proportions and generous external dimensions.  The refined exterior is mirrored by a stylish interior that features high-quality materials on key surfaces.

Allan Rushforth, Senior Vice President and COO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: "New Generation i10 is another significant step forward for Hyundai Motor.  Every aspect of the car has been designed and rigorously developed to meet the demands and needs of European consumers.  New Generation i10 fully embodies Hyundai's ‘true value' proposition, bringing higher levels of features and functionality than many buyers would expect to find in a vehicle of this segment."

As with 95% of Hyundai cars sold in Europe, New Generation i10 has been designed and developed at the Hyundai Motor Europe Technical Centre in Rüsselsheim, Germany.  New Generation i10 will become the first A-segment Hyundai to also be built in the region.

Set to enter production in September, New Generation i10 will be made at Hyundai's factory in Ízmit, Turkey.  The annual capacity of the plant, which already produces the B-segment New i20 model, is rising to 200,000 cars, following a multi-million Euro investment in infrastructure in the region.  Once New Generation i10 goes on sale across Europe, 90% of Hyundai cars sold in Europe will be built in the region.

More information will be released ahead of New Generation i10's debut at the Internationale Automobil-Ausstellung (IAA) in Frankfurt in September.

DATED: 08.08.13

FEED: HA